FINLAND: HÄMEEN LINNA, HÄME CASTLE

Häme Castle is one of Finland’s medieval royal castles. It is believed to have been built at the end of the 13th century, following the crusade by Swedish Earl Birger to Häme region. During the Middle Ages the original fortified camp was built into a residential castle for its commandant. In the 18th century a third storey was built and curtain wall buildings partly replaced the original outer walls. The castle and its surroundings were in prison use from 1837 to 1972. The main castle is now presented as a historical monument.

The Häme Castle and its redbrick barracks are on the shore of Lake Vanajavesi. The promontary has been a meeting place for centuries, and the walls almost echo the voices from the Middle Ages.

The 200-year medieval construction history of the castle is plainly visible in the façade. The medieval curtain wall and mid-16th century gun tower that formed part of the bailey defences have been well preserved on the side facing Lake Vanajavesi.

Description: National Board Of Antiquities